Bend It like Beckham Argumentative Essay

        Thespina Dabagia

Sydney Attar

Period 3

Bend It like Beckham Argumentative

Bend It like Beckham is a modern day film that tells the story of a young Indian girl named Jess (Jessminder) Bhamra and her traditional Indian family living in England. She dreams of playing soccer but has to deal with the challenges of her parents. In the movie, Jess meets an English girl named Jules who helps her get a spot on an English All Woman soccer team and from there her soccer career sprouts. Despite her parent’s wishes, Jess loves the sport too much to let it go. The conflict in Bend It like Beckham is that Jess wants to play soccer, and her parents do not want her to pursue the sport.        

        Jess’ mom is against her daughter playing soccer because she does not want Jess to drift away from her cultural roots. Mrs. Bhamra wants Jess to be a traditional Indian wife. The mother wants Jess to marry an Indian man and fulfill all the duties of an Indian housewife. She also wants her to be able to cook a full traditional meal. Mrs. Bhamra wants a very conservative life for her daughter Jess. The mother cries, “You bring shame to society.” Jess’s mother is embarrassed that her daughter isn’t following their traditional Indian culture by playing a sport. Jess understands that carrying on the Indian tradition is what her mother thinks is best for her. However, Jess loves soccer and will pursue her dreams. Mrs. Bhamra does not enjoy knowing Jess plays soccer.

        Jessminder’s father doesn’t want her to play soccer because he wants to protect her. Mr. Bhamra wants Jess to be successfully secure. Mr. Bhamra was not allowed to play the sport he loved and couldn’t pursue his dream. He does not want the same tragedy for his daughter. He also wants Jess to have a successful career that is more stable than being a woman athlete. Mr. Bhamra is worried Jess will be rejected for being Indian. Mr. Bhamra says to Jess’ coach, “I think we know better our daughter’s potential.” He knows what he wants for his daughter Jess. Jess understands that her father doesn’t want her to be judged for being Indian like he was although, Jess is passionate about soccer and won’t let anything get in her way. Mr. Bhamra does not feel comfortable with Jess playing soccer.